Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Homemade Apple Pie Filling with tender cinnamon-coated apples in a glass jar and a spoonful lifted above.

This homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe is made with tender Granny Smith apples, butter, cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice. Cooking the apples first creates a perfectly thick, flavorful filling that’s ready for your favorite pie crust or other apple desserts.

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Keyword Apple Pie, apple pie filling

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 7

Additional/Cooling Time 30

Total Time 52

Servings 9 inch pie

Calories 1672kcal

Author Katie Cooksey

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
6 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and sliced
1 cup granulated sugar divided
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Add the sliced apples, 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are almost tender but still hold their shape.
Transfer the apples to a strainer and drain off the excess liquid. Let cool for about 30 minutes.
Combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Add the mixture to the cooked apples and toss until the apples are evenly coated.
Use immediately to fill a 9-inch apple pie or use as directed in your favorite apple dessert recipe.

Notes

Granny Smith apples work especially well because they hold their shape during cooking and their tart flavor balances the sweetness of the filling. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples can also work.

Nutrition